Totalitarianism Chapter 14, Section 2

Introduction After Lenin dies, Stalin seizes power and transforms the Soviet Union into a totalitarian state. –“–“Stalin, Lenin’s successor, dramatically transformed the government of the Soviet Union. Stalin was determined that the Soviet Union should find its place both politically and economically among the most powerful of nations in the world. Using tactics designed to rid himself of opposition, Stalin worked to establish total control of all aspects of life in the Soviet Union. He controlled not only the government, but also the economy and many aspects of citizens’ private lives.” (p. 874)

Total, Centralized State Control Totalitarianism—government that dominates every aspect of life Totalitarian leader is often dynamic and persuasive

6 Features of a Totalitarian State 1. Single-Party Dictatorship 2. State control of economy 3. Police spies and state terrorism 4. Strict Censorship and government control of media 5. Use of Schools and media to indoctrinate and mobilize citizens 6. Unquestioned obedience to a single ruler

Police Terror Government uses police to spy on and intimidate people – “Normally, the police are expected to respond to criminal activity and protect the citizens. In a totalitarian state, the police serve enforce the central government’s policies.” (p. 874)

Indoctrination Government shapes people’s minds through slanted education – “Control of education is absolutely essential to glorify the leader and his policies and to convince all citizens that their unconditional loyalty and support are required.” (p. 874, 876)

Propaganda and Censorship Totalitarian states spread propaganda. Government controls all mass media, and crushes opposing views. Censorship

Religious or Ethnic Persecution Leaders brand religious, ethnic minorities “enemies of the state.”

TOTALITARIANISM State Control of Individuals demands loyalty denies basic liberties expects personal sacrifice for the good of the state Methods of Enforcement: police terror indoctrination censorship persecution Modern Technology mass communication to spread propaganda advance military weapons State Control of Society business labor housing education Dictatorship & One-Party Rule exercises absolute authority dominates the government Dynamic Leader unites people symbolizes government encourages popular support through force of will Ideology sets goals of the state glorified aims of the state glorified govern

Case Study: Stalinist Russia

Stalin Builds a Totalitarian State Stalin aims to create Communist state in Russia. – He began by destroying his enemies— real and imagined. Eliminates Leon Trotsky Eliminates members of the Politburo – “Socialism in One Country”

New Economic System Command economy—the government makes all the economic decisions.

An Agricultural Revolution In 1928, government creates collective farms—large, state-owned farms. Peasants resist this change, and 5-10 million peasants die in the crackdown. – Kulaks By 1938, agricultural production is rising.

An Industrial Revolution Five-Year Plans— & – Stalin’s plans for developing the economy – Prepare for Germany!!! Result: large growth in industrial power, but a shortage in consumer goods

Police State Stalin’s police (CHEKA) attack opponents with public force and secret actions First Purges – The Great Purge “Great Terror”) – – Terror campaign against Stalin’s perceived enemies. – The purge involved The “old Bolsheviks” who helped in the 1917 Revolution. The Red Army leadership Repression of the “Kulaks” or better off, independent landowning peasants The Church Ethnic Groups Ordinary People By the end of 1938 Stalin is in complete control; 8-13 million people are dead as a result.

Russian Propaganda and Censorship Government controls newspapers, radio, and movies. Stalin developed a “cult of personality” often glorifying himself in official propaganda posters (see right). Artists are censored, controlled; their work is harnessed to glorify the Party

Education and Indoctrination Government controls all education, from early grades to college. Children learn the virtues of the Communist Party. Teachers and students who challenge the Party are punished.

Gains at Great Cost People better educated, gain new skills. Limited personal freedoms; very few consumer goods. Woman Gain Rights – Communists say women are equal to men. – Women forced to join labor force; state provides child care – Many women receive advanced educations and become professionals. – Women suffer from the demands of work and family.

Powerful Ruler By mid-1930s, Stalin has transformed Soviet Union – Totalitarian regime; industrial, political power Stalin controls all aspects of Soviet life: – Unopposed as dictator, Communist Party leader – Rules by terror instead of constitutional government – Demands conformity and obedience.